Every year, on the first Sunday in September, the small town of Zundert in the Netherlands is transformed into a floral extravaganza by the annual event of Bloemencorso or Flower Parade. It is a tradition which originated in the 1930s and is now regarded as the best event of its kind in the world.
Throughout the year, 20 groups of volunteers of all ages from the areas in and around Zundert plan the concept of their float which is to take part in the parade, down to the very last detail and the dahlias, the flower of choice, are specially planted in the desired color scheme. The three summer months leading up to the event is a time of frenzied activity and secrecy as the framework is constructed and three days before the event, the freshly cut flowers are added to complete the works of art.
The results are spectacular, animals, scenes, monsters all created entirely by hand and using the common flower. Another important aspect of the event is the sense of continuity and closeness within the community, a warmth felt by visitors to the small town as they watch the parade with the impressive flower sculptures, each one a collective ‘labor of love.’
